Rail freight UK

GB Railfreight has reached an agreement with Porterbrook to lease three Zephir ‘LOK 16.300’ depot shunters for its operations at Celsa Steel Works in Cardiff.

The LOK 16.300 is a more sustainable option than traditional depot shunters, with an expected fuel efficiency saving of up to 60%. They provide depot operational flexibility as they are capable of operating outside of railway infrastructure. The units have been procured through Zephir’s UK distributor Depot Rail, who will also support the shunters while they are in active operations.

Asset Director of GB Railfreight Dave Golding said: “We’re pleased to be adding these new industry-leading Zephir shunt locotractors to our fleet. The LOK 16.300 locotractors alongside other recent significant investments made by GB Railfreight, including 50 modern JNA-X wagons from Porterbrook will help us deliver our target to be net zero by 2050 and help to decarbonise the UK’s supply chains.”

Porterbrook’s Head of Freight and Route Services Mark Wyborn said: “Porterbrook is committed to investing in rail freight for the long-term. With over 300 depot shunters currently operating in the UK and most due for renewal over the next five years, bringing these lower-emission Zephirs under our ownership for GB Railfreight marks a further diversification of our freight fleet, and underlines our dedication to support the sector with affordable, innovative and sustainable rolling stock.”

“We look forward to working with Zephir and our industry partners to continue the roll out of more sustainable assets for depot operations.”

Director at Depot Rail OwenSnell said: “We are really pleased to have the opportunity to work with Porterbrook and GB Railfreight to provide a more sustainable shunting solution for Celsa’s Cardiff operations.”